Guide What Paperwork Do I Need to Buy a Car in the UK?

In this guide, we’ll cover the essential paperwork required to buy a car in the UK, whether you’re purchasing from a dealer or a private seller. Buying a car, whether new or used, is an exciting but sometimes overwhelming process. One of the most important parts of the process is making sure you have all the right paperwork in place. Missing documents can cause delays or even legal issues, so it’s crucial to know exactly what you need.

1. Vehicle Registration Certificate (V5C) – Logbook

The V5C, also known as the logbook, is the document that proves who is the registered keeper of the vehicle. It includes important information such as the car’s make, model, and engine size, as well as the name and address of the current owner.

• When buying from a dealer: They will handle the transfer of the V5C for you, and you should receive a new one with your name as the registered keeper within a few weeks.
• When buying privately: The seller will need to fill out section 6 of the V5C and send it to the DVLA. You should be given the green ‘new keeper’s slip’ (section 10) as proof of ownership until the new V5C arrives in your name.

Why it’s important: The V5C ensures you’re recognized as the legal owner of the vehicle. Without it, you can’t tax or sell the car in the future.

2. Proof of Identity and Address

To complete the car purchase and any associated paperwork, especially if you’re getting car finance, you’ll need to provide proof of identity and proof of address.

• Acceptable forms of ID: Passport or driving licence.
• Proof of address: Recent utility bill, bank statement, or council tax bill (dated within the last three months).

Why it’s important: Dealers and finance providers need to verify your identity and residency, and it’s required for things like insurance and setting up payment plans.

3. Insurance Documents

It is illegal to drive without insurance in the UK, so you’ll need to arrange car insurance before you drive your new car home. Some dealers may offer temporary insurance to cover you for a short period (usually a few days), but it’s best to have your own insurance sorted in advance.

• When buying from a dealer: Ensure your insurance policy is active before collecting the car.
• When buying privately: You’ll need to have insurance in place before driving the car away.

Why it’s important: Without valid insurance, you won’t be able to legally drive your new car on UK roads, and you could face fines or penalties.

4. MOT Certificate (For Cars Over 3 Years Old)

If the car is more than three years old, it legally needs to have a valid MOT certificate. This proves that the car has passed its annual MOT test and is roadworthy.

• When buying from a dealer: The dealer should provide you with the current MOT certificate. If the car doesn’t have a valid MOT, the dealer should arrange for a test before selling it to you.
• When buying privately: Ask the seller to provide the MOT certificate. You can also check the car’s MOT status online using the car’s registration number.

Why it’s important: Driving without a valid MOT certificate is illegal, and it’s a good indicator of the vehicle’s condition.

5. Service History

The service history shows how well the car has been maintained. While it’s not a legal requirement, a full service history can give you peace of mind that the car has been looked after.

• When buying from a dealer: Ask for the service book or records, which should include details of when the car was serviced and what work was done.
• When buying privately: Make sure the seller provides the service history and ask questions about any major repairs or replacements.

Why it’s important: A well-documented service history can help you spot potential problems and gives you insight into the car’s condition.

6. Vehicle History Check (HPI Check)

A vehicle history check (often called an HPI check) isn’t a physical document, but it’s highly recommended when buying a used car. This check will reveal important details like whether the car has been stolen, written off, or has outstanding finance.

• When buying from a dealer: Most reputable dealers will have already done this, but it’s worth asking for confirmation.
• When buying privately: You should always run your own vehicle history check to avoid any nasty surprises later.

Why it’s important: It protects you from buying a car that may have hidden issues, such as being stolen or subject to outstanding finance agreements.

7. Sales Agreement or Receipt

Whether you’re buying from a dealer or privately, you should always get a receipt or sales agreement that details the sale. This document should include the purchase price, date of sale, and any agreed terms or conditions (like warranty coverage).

• When buying from a dealer: You’ll likely receive a formal sales contract outlining the terms of the purchase, including any finance agreements.
• When buying privately: Make sure to get a signed receipt from the seller that states the amount paid, the car’s registration number, and both your and the seller’s details.

Why it’s important: This protects both you and the seller by documenting the transaction and providing proof of payment.

8. Road Tax (Vehicle Excise Duty)

You’ll need to ensure the car is taxed before you drive it. The seller cannot transfer the road tax, so you’ll need to set this up yourself.

• When buying from a dealer: The dealer may help you set up the road tax before you leave with the car.
• When buying privately: You’ll need to tax the car online or at the Post Office as soon as the V5C is transferred to your name. DVLA online service is open every day until 7pm. Don’t buy privately after 7pm.

Why it’s important: Driving an untaxed car is illegal in the UK, and you can be fined or even have the car seized if caught.

Final Thoughts: Have Your Paperwork Ready

Buying a car in the UK requires you to be on top of the paperwork, whether you’re buying from a dealer or privately. Ensuring that all the necessary documents are in place will make the process smoother and help protect you legally.

Key Paperwork to Remember:

• V5C (Logbook)
• Proof of ID and Address
• Insurance documents
• MOT certificate (if the car is over 3 years old)
• Service history
• Vehicle history check
• Sales agreement/receipt
• Road tax

By gathering all the essential paperwork ahead of time, you can make the car-buying process hassle-free and ensure everything is legal and above board.

Buying a used VW. Buying used vauxhall, BMW, Jaguar, Ford, Volvo, Range rover, Bentley, Aston Martin, Porsche, Ferrari, Lamborghini, Maserati, Hyundai, Tesla, Honda, Pagani